Tim Hauser - Love Stories (2010)

In 1972, a Troy, NY-born, Jersey Shore-raised bass singer named Tim Hauser formed the second and final incarnation of the jazz-swing, all-vocal quartet the world knows today as the Manhattan Transfer (“Boy From New York City,” “Mystery,” “Spice Of Life”). He’s seen fellow members branch off with their own solo CDs through the years. But he never felt a need to do so himself until his 2007 release in Japan and now, re-released in America. “Love Stories” brings out the now L.A.-based Hauser’s softer, romantic side with 12 known and little-known standards and gems: “The More I See You,” Paul Desmond’s “My Funny Valentine,” “I’m Just A Fool,” and of special note, “She’s Funny That Way,” a 1928 Charles N. Daniels/Richard A. Whiting tune Frank Sinatra put his fine stamp on, done exceptionally well in this updated recording.

Hauser’s girlfriend Barb Sennet Wilson, a graphic artist/music manager, recently put together the artwork for the repackaged CD and especially loves to play a personal favorite, "She's Funny That Way," over and over again, as it truly speaks to her and reminds her of her own love story. And isn't that the point of all love songs? It's easy to find your own love story in any one of these 12 tracks and completely relate. Known for his fine attention to detail, from the concept and image to the content and promotion, Hauser wisely worked with some pretty famous names (Frankie Valli, Dennis Wilson, Kenny Rankin) in the industry to shape the final, compelling outcome in this, his first solo album. Hopefully not his last.